Justin Bieber: Did pop star cancel UK's Fusion Festival to release new single What Do You Mean?

It has been two years since Justin Bieber last performed in the UK but unfortunately, fans will have to wait even longer now that he has cancelled his Fusion Festival performance(REUTERS/Stringer)

It is not the announcement they were expecting, so it is no surprise that many of Justin Bieber's fans in the UK are upset with the Baby singer cancelling his performance at the upcoming Fusion Festival. Although he did not specify a reason, it is most likely so the singer can continue work on his forthcoming album.

Joining the likes of Tinie Tempah and McBusted on the line-up, Bieber, 21, had been scheduled to headline the Birmingham music event on 28 August. However, the Canadian pop star released a statement via Twitter announcing he is no longer performing due to "an unforeseen issue".

Preparing for backlash from the media, the Where Are You Now hitmaker explained: "I support the Prince's Trust wholeheartedly and I am deeply disappointed I won't be able to perform... And now the Uk press will start to tear me apart. Comes with the job. Love u guys regardless and I will make this up to you."

Suggesting his current focus is completing his anticipated third studio album, Bieber tweeted: "Back to the studio. Need to finish this album. Might have a name." In July, he appeared on Ryan Seacrest's KIIS FM radio show to announce the release of his brand new single, What Do You Mean?, on 28 August, coincidentally the same day he was expected to perform at the festival.

Describing the sound of the accompanying album, Bieber told the host he has been experimenting with producer Skrillex on an EDM sound. He said: "Skrillex is a genius, he's super futuristic and I just love his sound, so being able to incorporate that sound with what I'm doing has been super cool because it's new and fresh and I feel like no one's done it before."

Still expected to perform at the festival are Jess Glynne, Rudimental, The Vamps, Clean Bandit, Fuse ODG, Ella Henderson and Rixton. Addressing Bieber's cancellation, the festival organisers said in a statement: "We are now working hard to secure another exciting act for the festival and will hopefully have some news shortly. We will also announce details of how you can apply for a refund should you require one. Please stay tuned to our social media channels for further announcements soon."

As expected, many Beliebers in the UK are devastated at the cancellation and have expressed their upset on Twitter.